#United States #Columbus #Buckeye Health Plan #NCIL #Accessibility Initiative

Buckeye Health Plan Collaborates on Accessibility Initiative

In a significant move towards enhancing healthcare access for individuals with disabilities, Buckeye Health Plan has allocated $141,000 in grants to six healthcare providers across Ohio. This initiative, in partnership with the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), aims to rectify barriers within healthcare facilities to ensure all patients receive the care they need without unnecessary obstacles.

The allocated funds are part of the Barrier Removal Fund, which is a component of the broader Provider Accessibility Initiative. This initiative focuses on assisting healthcare providers in making necessary modifications to their facilities that will benefit patients with disabilities. The grantees selected for this funding include Clear Minds Coaching & Counseling, Mercer Health Medical Group, McMichael Chiropractic Clinic, Athens City-County Health Department, Little Flower Family Practice, and Lower Lights Christian Health Center.

Buckeye's CEO, Justin Loudon, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "This partnership furthers Buckeye's commitment to providing access to quality healthcare to patients with disabilities, their companions and care providers." He pointed out that accessible healthcare facilities are crucial for nurturing inclusive communities where individuals can access various health services with dignity and ease.

The ultimate goal of the Barrier Removal Fund is to increase the number of healthcare providers in Ohio that meet or even surpass federal and state disability access standards. The grants will specifically fund projects that aim to purchase specialized equipment for patients with disabilities and to implement ADA-compliant improvements. These improvements may include vital structural enhancements such as handrails, wheelchair ramps, and sliding doors that facilitate easier access to medical services.

According to Jenny Sichel, Operations Director at NCIL, physical barriers within healthcare settings often act as hurdles preventing patients from receiving the necessary care for their conditions. "We have seen the Barrier Removal Fund successfully address these issues in other states and are excited to see its impact in Ohio," she stated, underlining the initiative's potential to transform how healthcare is accessed by individuals with disabilities.

Enhancing Patient Care

The project encourages participating healthcare providers to submit projects focused on eliminating architectural and programmatic barriers while also acquiring essential medical equipment that can cater to diverse patient needs—such as adjustable examination tables and specialized weight scales.

These changes are not merely about compliance; they are about transforming the understanding of accessibility in healthcare settings. Ultimately, it’s about ensuring that the health and wellbeing of patients are prioritized, regardless of their physical capabilities.

About Buckeye Health Plan and NCIL

Buckeye Health Plan has been a key player in providing managed healthcare for Ohioans since 2004, particularly for low-income individuals under Medicaid and Medicare. Its initiatives focus not only on healthcare provision but also on comprehensive support that promotes healthier living for families.

The National Council on Independent Living, founded in 1982, stands as a leading advocacy organization for individuals with disabilities, representing thousands of organizations and individuals advocating for civil rights and promoting independence for all.

This collaboration between Buckeye Health Plan and NCIL marks a promising step towards a more inclusive healthcare system in Ohio. By removing barriers, they are paving the way for inclusivity and setting a standard that other states might aspire to achieve.